Zuma Beach and Lagoon

California · Southwest

Habitat
WetlandCoastal
Best Seasons
FallWinterSpring
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-May

About This Location

Zuma Beach and Lagoon is a productive birding destination in California, with 254 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and coastal habitat attracts Marbled Godwit, Western Gull, and Brown Pelican among many others. The unique desert and riparian habitats support specialty species alongside wintering and migrating birds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

3/4/2026Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Malibu US-CA 34.09152, -118.809221 observed

Western Flycatcher (Pacific-slope)

Empidonax difficilis

3/3/2026Conejo Creek North Park1 observed

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

2/28/2026Conejo Open Space--Rancho Potrero10 observed

Bank Swallow

Riparia riparia

2/22/202693012, Camarillo US-CA (34.1682,-119.0391)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Marbled Godwit

52/28/2026

Western Gull

32/28/2026

Brown Pelican

12/28/2026

Surf Scoter

202/24/2026

Rock Pigeon

252/24/2026

Black-bellied Plover

12/24/2026

Willet

12/24/2026

Common Murre

12/24/2026

Heermann's Gull

82/24/2026

Ring-billed Gull

102/24/2026

California Gull

152/24/2026

Western Grebe

52/24/2026

Red-throated Loon

22/24/2026

Common Loon

12/24/2026

Brandt's Cormorant

22/24/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

52/24/2026

Snowy Egret

12/24/2026

Great Egret

12/24/2026

American Crow

22/24/2026

Wrentit

12/24/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Carry extra water and sun protection; mornings are the prime birding window.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Zuma Beach and Lagoon for birding?
The best months to visit Zuma Beach and Lagoon for birding are October-May. The best seasons are Fall and Winter and Spring.
What birds can I see at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Notable species at Zuma Beach and Lagoon include Marbled Godwit, Western Gull, Brown Pelican, Surf Scoter, Rock Pigeon. The area supports wetland, coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Birding at Zuma Beach and Lagoon is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Zuma Beach and Lagoon?
Zuma Beach and Lagoon offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.